Over two decades after they first graced the screen together, the beloved stars of Charlie’s Angels—Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Lucy Liu—have reunited for the first time with Demi Moore, who portrayed the villain Madison Lee, to celebrate the latter’s Academy Award-nominated performance in the film The Substance. The gathering, held virtually and featured on Vanity Fair, marks their first collective appearance since Liu’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony back in 2019.
Barrymore set the tone for the reunion by reminiscing about their shared history, stating, “We’ve done so many things other than Charlie’s Angels. So whether you see us as the Angels or not, we are four women who love each other, respect each other, have known each other, have worked together, and celebrate female friendship.” Barrymore emphasized the ease and joy of participating in this homage to Moore, indicating their close-knit bond.
Moore’s recent work has caught the attention of many, and her fellow actresses didn’t miss the chance to express their admiration. Lucy Liu, who has long collaborated with and respected Moore, declared, “I think I can speak for all of us—we are so proud of you. This performance, you've always had it in you and all of the work you’ve done. There’s so much vulnerability in the strength you are able to put on camera.” Liu’s heartfelt words exemplify the depth of their connection as artists and as friends.
Cameron Diaz, too, lauded Moore for her talent and fearlessness, stating, “Watching you give this performance, you don't have to ask anybody's permission.” Diaz noted the new path Moore paved within the industry, highlighting how she challenged traditional roles and expectations filmmakers had long adhered to. “It’s as if there was a constitution written in the film industry… and y’all went in and just shredded it to pieces,” Diaz added, showcasing her respect for Moore’s willingness to redefine herself and her characters.
This celebration of Moore’s work also served as a tribute to her resilience and personal growth over the years. Barrymore elaborated on how Moore’s hiatus from Hollywood had imbued her performance with authenticity, saying, “I was like, ‘This badass has walked away at the height of success and taken time for herself.’” This informed her own expectations of Moore's portrayals, reinforcing the idea of success and self-acceptance over external validation.
Moore's performance in The Substance has already begun to resonate well beyond the awards circuit; she has been recognized with numerous nominations, including an Oscar nod for Best Actress. The film itself was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, solidifying its impact.
For these actresses, their enduring friendship is palpable, transcending the professional connections they first established through their blockbuster movies. The reunion highlights not only their past collaborations but the continuous support they offer each other as they navigate their individual journeys within the industry.
Looking back, it’s clear this reunion wasn't just about honoring Moore. It was also about celebrating the power of womanhood, friendship, and the shared experiences of these incredible actresses. They represent not just themselves, but also the collective strength of all women pursuing their passions and breaking barriers within their art.
The reunion reflects how the entertainment industry has evolved and the strides women have made since the early 2000s. It reignites hope and sets an example for future generations, reminding us of the importance of female solidarity and support, wherever the entertainment world takes them next.